Good used condition (as with most Supreme props the lacquer is slightly crackling, which is seen close-up, collector’s will understand)
Original instructions (which have a few holes punched into them). Supreme Magic of England.
Here is the original advertising blurb:
“It Is now some years ago since we introduced the ‘CANTON TORTURE’ to the magical fraternity: A version of Abbott’s Cabinet of Cheefoo marketed with Percy Abbott’s permission and with our own Improvements.
The effect has been a favorite one with many well-known magicians.
A short time ago, Ron McMillan showed us a further improvement 10 this effect and by arrangement with him we are able to offer it as an Exclusive to our customers.
The Improvement adds 1,000% to the effectiveness of the illusion and makes for simplicity in Working and dramatic effect.
A simple wooden tube is shown; many holes have been drilled through the top and bottom of the tube. Tube is designed so the audience can see underneath it when it is resting on the table. A number of solid six-inch spikes are shown, – here’s the difference … all these spikes are mounted as one unit onto a wooden frame with a handle.
Magician inflates a long sausage balloon and places this into the tube. He runs a steel ruler or knife, or other metallic object around the spikes, proving these are quite definitely solid. The spectators are asked to imagine that the balloon is the magician’s arm. Spikes are now Inserted at the top and slowly lowered down. There’s a bang … the balloon BURSTS … magician appears surprised!
NEVERTHELESS, he is prepared, he says, to undergo the ‘Trial of the Spikes’. His arm is bared and inserted in the tube after the spikes have been lifted from it. The spike unit is placed on the top and dramatically pushed down, “penetrating right through the arm”.
The cabinet is tipped over so that the heads of the many spikes are seen; spikes can also be seen protruding from the bottom of the cabinet.
Magician says he will remove his arm but finds he is unable to do so …. of course, first of all he has to remove the spike unit! … he does this and is able to show his arm is quite intact.
Instead of your own arm. you can use that of your assistant or an assistant from the audience.
The patter supplied is great and you can use this in either a straight or comedy presentation.
Made as only Supreme know how by our own skilled cabinet maker. Cabinet and frame are made in wood and lacquered in red, gold and black. – Spikes are plated. This is a prop you will delight to own. A sensational reputation maker.”
No balloons included.
